Molson Pace Card Produces
Record Handle
London, June 5, 2015 -- The Raceway at
Western Fair District wrapped up its 2014/15 racing season – the first as part
of Ontario’s new Standardbred Racing Alliance - in record fashion this past
Friday night.
The Molson Pace night program produced an
all-time wagering record of $610,000 for the 12-race program, which was up more
than 50% from last year’s total of $404,000. Wagering on the race itself rose
sharply from $132,000 in 2014 to $196,000 on this year’s contest. On-site live
wagering saw a healthy $126,000 put through the windows, up 26% year over year.
State Treasurer made history by becoming the
first ever to capture three straight titles in the event since it became the
Molson Pace back in 1992. His 1:51 clocking was a stakes record and just
one-fifth off of the overall track record at the London oval.
Overall wagering and per race wagering at
The Raceway were both up close to 20% over last year’s totals.
“We made a significant change with our post
times this season, switching from a mid-afternoon product to a night time
product with a 6:15 p.m. post during the week,” explained Racing Manager Greg
Blanchard. “We thought the timing was right to make the change and it’s
encouraging to see the numbers support that. I’d like to thank the customers
and horse people that supported us once again throughout the season and we look
forward to some exciting announcements ahead of the upcoming season.”
The Raceway remains open all summer long,
seven-days-a-week, for simulcasting and live racing is set to return on
Tuesday, October 6.
